The class introduced students to the theories, practice, and criticism of public speaking as a responsibility of individuals living in a democracy. The class introduced students to the principles of oral communication with units in group communication, and mass media. Students also examined elements of ethical speaking, critical listening, and the critical thinking needed to interpret mediated messages. Additionally, the class focused on Ferguson and the Black Lives Matter campaign which introduced students to the African American oratorical tradition—with a specific focus on the Black prophetic tradition. In short, the Ferguson Fiasco along with the Black Lives Matters campaign grounded the study of communication principles and public speaking. This course The event is free and the public is invited. #FergusonFiasco
The speeches in our class have been so enlightening and interesting - I think this will be a great platform to share what my classmates have been working on. I think it's great that Rhodes is providing us with this opportunity to share with the larger Rhodes community!
ReplyDeleteIf you have been involved in any dialogue or course curriculum on Ferguson during or after the fiasco, this forum is the one to attend. Dr. Johnson's insights will be eye opening, noteworthy, and far reaching. This forward thinking professor can offer you a pure, unadulterated sampling of what matters about black life. Godspeed to those who have a hand in its success - which I believe it will be.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great and interesting opportunity that Rhodes is offering. I believe this would be a great way for the Memphis community to show that they are still much invested as there were when Mike Brown was killed.
ReplyDeleteI am excited for our classmates to share their moving speeches tonight in front of a larger audience. I hope there is a good turn out from both the Rhodes and Memphis communities, so that these issues can be discussed.
ReplyDeleteI remember in August, shortly after Mike Brown's death, receiving an email about changes to our African American Religious Thought syllabus. At the time, I saw the words "Ferguson Fiasco" and they seemed reflective to me of one singular event - the shooting death of Michael Brown. I've been a bit dumbstruck ever since, watching the list of names of individuals - most often black men - killed by police under dubious circumstances roll on and on and on. I catch myself learning the new names so quickly that I have to concentrate not to forget the old...Freddie Gray joins the list and Walter Scott moves down one space. And on and on and on. Though I was interested in studying the current events in a classroom setting and through a theological lens, I honestly had no idea how deeply these events would permeate all of my learning, in all of my courses. The Jesus in my courses is the Jesus fighting for breath in the back of the van. He is the Jesus running for his life in the street. He is the Jesus standing, in defiance to the system, with his hands up. I am thankful for the opportunity to study Ferguson, Missouri, and the many Fergusons throughout the country in an academic setting. I'm saddened that an MTS course conflicted with my ability to attend this panel tonight, but I am thankful, as well, that the Ferguson Fiasco course material has found a home at multiple academic institutions in our community. Thank you, Dr. J.
ReplyDeleteI think that this will be a great way for people to express their opinions about the Ferguson situation without all the violence and in an educated manner. I know that Dr. Johnson will be a great leader in this forum.
ReplyDeleteLinda
This is a great way to dialog about the issues going on in Ferguson. The topics should expound on the overall treatment of blacks within the nation. It is also wonderful to acknowledge the is an issue.
ReplyDeleteAfter taking this class and listening to my classmates giving speech on the Ferguson and black lives matter, I learned much more. Media is often biased and only portray certain aspects of the issue, but by listening to my peers, I’ve learned much more about the police enforcement, militarization and black lives matter campaign. I wish to learn more and be part of the movement in the future.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great way to help other understand whats going on in Ferguson. It is also a great way to help everyone come together as one
ReplyDeleteAfter attending this course have learned so much about things relating in Ferguson. The media only see things in black or white. meaning that they never see the importance of the black community coming together in a peaceful manor for similar reason like our past ancestors. I find the movement Black Lives Matter to be motivational and necessary for the youth to learn to appreciate their selves and each other
ReplyDeleteDr. Johnson has an engaging teaching style and encourages outside the box thinking; while, challenging students to give a theological perspective to the situation. I am sure it will be a fun and challenging class.
ReplyDeleteThis class has taught me to talk about racism - which is a topic generally avoided in social conversations. I have realized how imperfect America is.
ReplyDelete